Our History and Mission

Hillside SPCA, Inc. is a non-profit organization serving all of Schuylkill County, PA. From our shelter in Pottsville, we provide safe haven and compassionate care to hundreds of cats and dogs every year. Our service area covers more than 780 square miles, making us a vital lifeline for animals in need throughout the community.

We are proud to be a no-kill shelter. Animals stay with us as long as needed until they find a loving home. Euthanasia is reserved only for cases of severe illness or unsafe behavior, and every animal receives the dignity of care, comfort, and compassion while with us. Each resident is given a name, quality food, cozy blankets, and the chance to thrive—dogs enjoy outdoor play yards and exercise spaces, while cats live in roomy condos with access to fresh air and sunshine.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Hillside SPCA has grown and improved over the years. Our facility now includes upgraded dog quarters with fenced exercise yards and safe kennels with indoor and outdoor access duing the warmer months. We’ve also created a “meet and greet” space where adopters can spend time getting to know pets in a calm environment, leading to more successful adoptions. Feline friends are housed in the renovated Etta Shepard Memorial Building, complete with spacious condos, outdoor enclosures for warm days, and a dedicated sick room for those needing extra medical care. Finally, we’ve been able to make our dream come true of offer low cost spay and neuter services to our community! The Barbara Jean and Edward Krupa & Nittany Spay/Neuter Clinic opened in the fall of 2023.

Beyond sheltering, Hillside SPCA is committed to building a better future for animals. We promote responsible pet ownership, provide education and outreach, and assist with spay/neuter costs for families who need help. Every adoption includes requirements that pets be kept indoors and altered (if not already done) ensuring they remain safe and cared for throughout their lives.

Our work is made possible almost entirely through donations, fundraising, and the tireless dedication of our staff and volunteers. It takes hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to keep our doors open, but our mission remains unwavering: the physical and emotional well-being of the animals always comes first.